ASTON Martin has launched a new and even more alluring version of its Vanquish GT car just in time for Christmas.
The Vanquish S gets an uprated V12 engine, suspension tuned for greater poise and precision, quad exhaust tailpipes and styling tweaks, including a carbon fibre splitter and diffuser.
The engine, a gloriously naturally-aspirated - i.e. not breathed upon by a turbo or supercharger - unit, has been tickled to produce a mighty 592bhp, up from the 'standard' Vanquish's 565bhp. Torque peaks at 465lb/ft.
Throttle response is sharper, too, and the automatic gearbox's software has been reprogrammed to give faster shifts.
The benchmark sprint from rest to 62mph is completed in 3.5 seconds and the top speed is a shade more than 200mph.
"From the moment the original Vanquish was launched it became a modern icon,2 said Aston Martin boss Dr Andy Palmer.
"It propelled Aston Martin from an era of hand-built cars to one where craftsmanship and technology combined to create a new kind of great British GT.
"In its second generation the Vanquish maintained that momentum with huge engineering advances such as its all-carbon fibre bodywork and compelling, contemporary styling.
"Now, the Vanquish S takes things a step further, confidently asserting itself within the Aston Martin range and distinguishing itself from the new DB11."
The Vanquish S can be ordered as either a coupe or convertible Volante, with the first cars due to arrive with customers in December.
The price? If you have to ask, it starts at £199,950…
